178 PETER COLLINSON [1746. 



would be worth the labour of people of circumstances, who are 

 curious to taste these delicious fruits in perfection. 



I take it, the reason the Plum succeeds so well, is the frequent 

 shaking the trees, by being planted in a frequented place. The 

 beetles are tumbled off, or else are disturbed, and frightened from 

 settling on the trees : and the ground being trod so much, may be 

 a great help, by keeping in the moisture, which is so conducive to 

 bring the fruit to maturity. 



This brings to my mind a contrivance I was told, a few days 

 agone. An Englishman went and settled at Naples, about your 

 latitude, and writ over to P. Miller, that Apricots throve very 

 well, but all the fruit dropped off: which he was surprised at ; for 

 he expected the finest fruits in that fine climate. But he was mis- 

 taken ; for the natural fruits of that country are Figs, Pomegra- 

 nates, Olives, Grapes, Oranges, and Lemons. My friend Miller 

 writ him word, to lay a great deal of muck (rotten dung and straw 

 mixed), or a great quantity of Fern leaves, or any compost that 

 would keep the ground moist, and prevent the sun's action, which 

 is very penetrating in that country, as well as with you. 



This had the desired effect ; and the gentleman writes him word, 

 that since he has practised it, he has never failed of fruit in plenty, 

 and in the greatest perfection. 



Now, friend John, improve this hint ; and if your Apricots are 

 too forward, plant them under all disadvantages possible ; that is, 

 in the most exposed places, and in all the coldest, shadiest aspects 

 that can be found. Perhaps, when mountains come to be settled, 

 the north sides may succeed with this fruit and others, and may 

 not be so much frequented by the Beetles, I apprehend, if your 

 Gooseberries were littered, it would prevent their dropping off; 

 and if this litter was now and then watered, both under the Apri- 

 cot, &c, it would be of service. 



Friend John, I have writ more fully by Captain Mesnard ; but 

 this will hint to thee thy good fortune of all thy cargoes coming 

 safe, which is great luck, these very perilous times. 



Notwithstanding all my endeavours, I can only raise thee one 

 new subscriber, * * who desires a little of everything, and 

 the Duke of Richmond and P. Miller are continued. Send them 

 any sort of Pine but Jersey Pine ; some acorns, a few of a sort ; 

 Sassafras ; Sweet Gum ; Sweet flowering Bay, or small Magnolia, 



